– The global VR market in education is forecasted to touch $13098.2 by 2026, with a growth rate of 42.9% from 2019 to 2026. (fortune business insights)
– The virtual training and simulation industry which stood at $ 204.41 billion in 2019, is expected to touch $ 601.85 billion by 2027. (Allied Market Research)
These figures demonstrate a positive trend for the adoption of VR in the education segment. Virtual reality is emerging as prominent higher education technology. Virtual reality enables immersive and interactive educational delivery. It offers a new dimension to the traditional methods of learning and teaching.
For example, learning abstract geometry in 3D is more purposeful than learning it in 2D. The same goes for science concepts or even when learning the anatomy of the human body. It changes how we understand concepts and takes learning up by a few levels. Virtual reality Labs offer a safe zone to experiment freely, with no risk to human life and property.
VR in Engineering
Engineering is a very important and coveted field of study. It offers a secure career and remuneration, creates researchers and innovators, and helps build nations and societies. Engineering marvels are not new. We can see science and beauty merged when we look at architectural or technological wonders. Nowadays, with the influx of modern-day technologies like Virtual reality, augmented reality, artificial intelligence, metaverse, etc., the scope is further enhanced.
– The National Education Association rates that VR training has an efficacy of 75%.
VR in engineering is helping to create new models of instruction relevant to the current day’s requirements. It is helping push the frontiers of a knowledge-based society and making the new workforce technologically empowered. Virtual reality Labs offer 3D real-world learning environments. Engineers can train freely and even undertake real-life jobs. They can interact with hazardous material or expose themselves to risky situations in a risk-free zone to master their craft
– A report in Forbes published that learners who train in VR setups reported 40% more confidence than learners trained in traditional classrooms.
– A Capgemini study reported that companies deploying VR in operations reported 10% benefits.
Let’s take a look at some engineering disciplines where VR is making a substantial impact.
VR in the AEC Sector
VR in architecture, engineering and construction offers novel solutions to bring in more efficient work models, enhancing planning and avoiding building errors in advance. The facility of real-time rendering has allowed them to visualise their creations in real time. With the help of 3D VR renderings, they can see their work as it would actually look once built. Hence, they can make changes and assess their impacts in real time as well. It has boosted the aspects of accessibility and safety in design, thus promoting inclusivity and accessibility for all.
VR in Civil Engineering
VR in engineering is also bringing improvements to the stream of civil engineering. Civil engineers have upon their shoulders the responsibility to build quality roads, highways and infrastructure. Waterworks and transportation are important infrastructure components that function because of civil engineers’ work.
VR in engineering models is proving to be of valuable assistance in teaching civil engineering. Instructors are creating VR-based educational didactic models to promote analysis and problem-solving aptitudes leading to better professional outcomes.
With VR, students can use 360-degree, 3D simulations to watch the physical evolution of the project in real time. VR also helps to navigate the complexities of topography and match the project requirements accordingly.
VR in Petroleum Engineering
VR in engineering is expanding in the petroleum engineering sector as well. The volatile aspect of the oil and gas sector can be dangerous. VR offers an extremely safe and effective training solution to counter the risks. With VR, learners and professionals can train in simulated real-life conditions, making them more adept at their work. VR brings in Operational Safety, allows a proper survey and analysis of surface and terrain and helps with the handling and maintenance of heavy and expensive machinery. It is a perfect solution to address the challenges faced in the petroleum sector’s remote and offshore locations.
Conclusion
To sum up, VR in engineering is useful, and its use cases by institutes in higher education are rising. Due to the repeated practice that an engineer can get in VR Labs, the chances of on-field errors are minimised. This leads to better productivity and resource optimisation.
VR Training labs are easily customisable and can offer training to all engineering verticals.
The growth of VR in engineering is rapidly increasing, offering clear-cut and precise learning outcomes.
